Wizards in Fantasy

A man waves his hand and a bolt of lightning crashes into a monster. Brandishing a staff, a woman speaks a spell that crumbles a stone wall into dust. Man or woman, wizards are a primary element of Fantasy. They play important roles in many novels. Merlin is perhaps one of the most familiar wizards in Fantasy, appearing in many Fantasy novels (see previous article Merlin in Fantasy). There are many other wizards that can match or rival Merlin in power and popularity. They appear in a wide range of Fantasy books.

One wizard who is well known in Fantasy after Merlin is Gandalf. He appears in Lord of the Rings and the The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. Gandalf is liked by the Hobbits, but can be an imposing figure. Considered a powerful wizard, he doesn't use much magic openly except in his battle with the Balrog. Mr. Tolkien created a realistic character with wisdom and personal flaws. His portrayal of Gandalf became an inspiration to be emulated by many other Fantasy authors over the years.

Another wizard with an interesting life story is Ged of the Earthsea books. He starts out as a powerful, arrogant youth who learns responsibility for his powers. The creation of Ursula K LeGuin, Ged's life is told through four books. From youth to Archmage to a journey beyond death, Ged's story demonstrates the magic life brings with its changes. Ged is an unforgettable wizard. His story is told in A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, The Farthest Shore and Tehanu.

Not all wizards are men. Fantasy author Maggie Furey's Aurian is a woman to be reckoned with carefully. Aurian is the daughter of two powerful magicians. She undergoes training in a society where ordinary people are considered little more than servants. Her story is told in four books: Aurian, Harp of Winds, Sword of Flame, and Dhiammara. Aurian's life is one of struggle, love, sadness and loss. She is an interesting character of a powerful woman with a vulnerable side.

Some wizards are very young in age and the author traces their story through their training in school or as an apprentice. Harry Potter is the latest young wizard who has become popular in books and movies. J.K. Rowling's contributions to wizards of Fantasy are:

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

The copyright of the article Wizards in Fantasy in Science Fiction & Fantasy is owned by Debbie Ledesma. Permission to republish Wizards in Fantasy in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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